8 Simple Ways to Reduce Stress Naturally

Our everyday lives are so hectic and busy that stress has become a natural part of it. Many of us don’t even feel the burden of it on our shoulders until we are past the breaking point. Stress is not only bad for you in terms of your mental well-being but it can be a cause of a lot of medical problems such as migraines, blood pressure and diabetes etc.

You don’t need to spend thousands of dollars on spa treatments or weekend retreats to unwind. Here are some basic tips to keep your stress levels in check throughout the day.

1. Meditation

Start your day with a few basic exercises to clear your mind and prepare your body for a hard day’s work. Just sit on the floor, take a deep breath and close your eyes. Then for a few minutes keep repeating a phrase again and again such as ‘I’m at peace’ or ‘I’m happy.’ Basically anything that helps you in becoming relaxed. Try to focus on nothing else and keep repeating until your body starts responding to it. The brain can be easily manipulated and if you keep repeating that you are happy and relaxed your brain will get the message and your body will start to respond.

2. Listen to music

The best way to unwind is to listen to some good old fashion music. I personally believe that this is the best therapy for those who tend to get anxious quickly. Studies show that listening to calm music will have a positive effect on your body and mind and can help reduce cortisol (a hormone produced by stress). Whether it is jazz, opera, classical music, hip hop, trance or house music; nothing is more soothing than your favorite melody. So if you think that the stress is taking a toll on you just take a break and listen to one of your favorite tracks and see it work wonders.

3. Exercise

Exercise is an amazing way to lower down stress levels. After a hard day’s work, it is highly recommended that you go for a walk or a jog in the park. Leave all your gadgets at home and just take a break for 20 minutes or so and try some basic exercises like running, stretching etc. Exercise helps rejuvenate one’s mind and body and makes you active.

4. Call a friend

The best therapy is talking to your friend about your problems. Just pick up the phone and call your best friend and the two of you can get down to the business of discussing of what is bothering you. Talking to someone helps to clarify the issues and put things in perspective. It happens so often that the things we are worrying about are so petty and talking to someone helps to filter and prioritize our issues.

5. Sit back and think for a minute

When faced by a crisis or any stressful situation, don’t act on impulse! If you panic and start acting it out immediately, chances are you will surely have a meltdown. When you are so stressed it is best to sit back for a minute, take a deep breath and organize your thoughts. Think about how you are going to go about dealing with the situation and convince yourself that everything will be fine and that it is not the end of the world!

6. Eat healthy

Stress and food are very closely related. We are so busy with our work that we often forget to eat and resort to junk food. Eating healthy and at proper times is very important to keep the stress levels in check. Eating fruits, vegetables and fish are highly recommended.

7. Sleep

A good 7-8 hours of sleep is a must for everyone. People often stay up late or hardly get 3-4 hours of sleep but that does not help anyone and makes you less productive. Manage your day in a way that you can get a proper night’s rest and wake up fresh and well rested the next morning.

8. Laugh it off

Laughter is the best medicine. When you are feeling stressful just laugh or smile and you’ll be surprised how quickly your mood changes. Take a break and watch an episode of friends or how I met your mother and you’ll be happy and stress free in no time!